A statement of motivation is a longer, more personal variant of the classic cover letter. It is most commonly requested for university admissions, scholarships, trainee programmes, fellowships or particularly mission-driven roles in the non-profit sector. Where the cover letter argues primarily along skill fit, the statement of motivation argues along personal reasoning.
A strong statement answers three questions: why this specific organisation or programme, why now, and why this candidate. It can be more narrative than a cover letter – stays abroad, voluntary work or formative biographical moments can feature, as long as they fit a clear story arc.
The usual length is one to two pages. Empty phrases such as "your organisation enjoys an excellent reputation" weaken the text. Instead, candidates should reference concrete observations or values that define the organisation. In social work and NGO contexts, the alignment of personal values with the mission often outweighs formal qualifications.
Lunigi is particularly geared towards meaning-driven job seekers – a clear motivation profile also strengthens matching with the right positions.